Biblical Perspectives on Makeup and Inner Beauty

A Christian woman should prioritize the internal beauty of a holy character over the use of makeup and artificial adornments 1 Peter 3:3-4BDOC 1.80.

The Standard of Natural Beauty

True beauty is found in the simplicity of natural refinement and the purity of a gentle spiritBDOC 1.80. God created the human body as a specimen of Himself, and we are called to be representatives of His character through neatness, modesty, and purityCG 103.2+1. Using artificial means like face paint is an attempt to improve upon God's own formation of the human body, which is a dishonor to the MakerARSH August 8, 1865, page 78.18+1.

Biblical and Historical Warnings

The practice of painting the face is associated with worldly and ungodly influences rather than the followers of JesusARSH August 8, 1865, page 78.18+1.

• The Example of Jezebel: The scriptures record that Jezebel "painted her face" as part of the uniform of the world 2 Kings 9:30BHB 169.1.

• A Sign of Spiritual Condition: Adorning the face with paint or ornaments is often an index to a mind that is focused on the superficial rather than the real and enduringYI November 5, 1896, Art. A, par. 6+1.

• Vain Identity: Those who use cosmetics such as rouge or paint may reach a point where the Maker cannot recognize the face as His own workmanshipGEP 577.1.

The Impact on Christian Character

The pursuit of fashion and the use of "artificials" for display can be a moral disease that hinders a person's ability to give God’s messageBDOC 1.80+1.

• Weakens the Mind: Seeking to beautify the external with paint is viewed by people of discernment as proof of a weak mind and a proud heartMYP 348.3.

• Wasted Resources: The time and money spent on cosmetics and needless ornamentation are stolen from the work of helping the poor and spreading the gospelARSH August 8, 1865, page 78.18+1.

• A Call to Reflection: If people were as particular about beautifying their character according to the mirror of God's law as they are about their appearance in a physical mirror, they would possess a beauty that never fadesST December 9, 1875, par. 14+1.

The Better Adornment

Instead of external paint and jewelry, women professing godliness are instructed to adorn themselves with good works, shamefacedness, and sobriety 1 Timothy 2:9-10ARSH July 10, 1855, page 1.17. A beautiful character, marked by a meek and quiet spirit, is of great value in the sight of God and will attract others without misleading them7BC 942.1+1. By choosing simplicity of dress and deportment, you let your light shine and show that you value eternal things above the fleeting fashions of this lifeBDOC 1.80+1.